How to Snake a Sink Drain

Your sink is clogged and you don't want to use a chemical drain opener. You've heard those chemical drain openers rarely work and when they don't, you have to put your gloved hands into that harsh stuff. Instead, try using a sink snake. This small snake is great for getting those hair clogs out fast and can save a call to the plumber. Here's how to use a sink snake.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Run water down the sink. Determine if the drain is just slow or completely clogged.

2. Visit your local home center and get a small sink drain snake. Make sure to get one with a crank and a case for the cleanest job.

3. Protect underneath your sink by laying down towels or newspaper. Protect your hands by wearing gloves.

4. Open up the trap with a plumber's wrench. Be sure to wiggle it around the other pipes carefully so you don't damage them. Check and see if the clog is in the trap. If it is, simply push it out with the end of the snake into the garbage.

5. Maneuver the snake into the main sink line. If the clog is farther down the line feed the snake into the pipe. When you hit resistance, turn the crank and pull the snake back and forth to loosen the clog. When you hear a gurgling sound you can be sure the clog is cleared.

6. Put the trap back on and run plenty of hot water through the drain. If the water comes up, repeat Steps 4 and 5 until the drain runs freely again.

Tips & Warnings

• If the trap will be off for an extended period of time, plug it with a clean rag to avoid sewer gases filling the area.
• Sewer gases are dangerous. The trap keeps the sewer gases from coming back into the house, so ventilate the area while the trap is removed.

[bkissinger]

on 10/17/2009 My Saturday afternoon and I still need a plumber